Sony today announced two new action camcorders for action and adventure videography. The Sony FDR-X3000 (shown), with 4K video capabilities is now Sony’s flagship action camera, and the HDR-AS300 is a lower-cost Full HD alternative. Both are splash-proof and include a waterproof housing so users can submerge the camera to depths of 197 feet. The camcorders are designed for active young users and are ideal for action videos of sports, point-of-view adventure, arts, nature and casual everyday and travel scenes.
Sony FDR-X3000 Key Features
- 4K Digital Video Camcorder
- Splash-proof body, waterproof housing included
- Selectable viewing angle: Wide, Medium or Narrow, 3x Zoom
- 12MP still image capture, 10fps burst mode
- 4K Time-Lapse Videos
- Slow motion capture to 120fps
- Stereo mic with wind noise reduction
- Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI, USB & Mic Jack
- Live remote (optional)
- System of accessories
Sony HDR-AS300 Key Features
- 1080p HD Video capture
- Splash-proof body, waterproof housing included
- Selectable viewing angle: Wide, Medium or Narrow, 3x Zoom
- 8MP still image capture, 10fps burst mode
- Slow motion capture to 120fps
- Stereo mic with wind noise reduction
- Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, HDMI, USB & Mic Jack
- Live remote (optional)
- System of accessories
The major difference between the two cameras is that the AX3000 records 4K, while the A300 is a full HD video camcorder. Both cameras also have options that include live remote and streaming capabilities via iOS and Android mobile devices. Externally, both cameras look almost identical.
It is tough: In addition to its splashproof construction, the AS300 and X3000 are also freezeproof, dustproof and shockproof, so it can handle a day of skiing and snowboarding, dirt biking, skateboarding, surfing and more. If you want to go deep, an underwater housing is included as standard gear. Underwater Housing Units are available for both, with a flat port in front of the lens and convenient camera buttons on the side for easy operation underwater. It also adds an extra layer of protection to the already-ruggedized body.
The cameras feature a new Zeiss Tessar lens which Sony says has significantly less lens distortion than previous models. A BSI Exmor R CMOS 1/2.5 inch, 8.2MP sensor (AS300) or 12MP sensor (X3000) and BIONZ X processor have been included to assure maximum image quality and full pixel readout without pixel binning. The camera offers Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilizaton—the lens and sensor and joined and move together, controlling the entire optical path as one floating unit, resulting in smoother images in active situations.
The built-in fixed-focus f/2.8 lens natively covers the 35mm equivalent of a 17mm lens, but can be set in crop modes for the equivalent angles of view to 23 and 32mm lenses, which Sony calls Wide, Medium, and Narrow, respectively. Exposure is set automatically, although there is an underwater scene setting and advanced manual setting adjustments that include white balance and auto exposure shift. Time lapse is available at 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 and 60-second intervals. Various frame rates are available, including 120fps at full resolution and up to 240p at reduced resolution. Time Code and User Bit is available for precise video editing.
Multi-camera use is also possible. Users can control up to five action cameras via their smart phone using the PlayMemories Mobile app multi-camera control, so you can edit in simultaneous ground-up, head-down and other shots. You can share the event as it happens via UStream so distant friends and family can see what you’re doing live.
The FDR-AS300 Action Cam is available in a kit (FDR-AS300R) with a compact Live-View Remote that is about 30% smaller than the previous version. It acts as an extension of the camera and features a more in-depth user interface and menu system, with a rich indication of camera settings that makes it easier to navigate menus and customize settings as needed. “Wi-Fi high power mode”, extends the communication distance between the camera and Live-View Remote for more flexible shooting. The mountable design, allows the Live View Remote to be attached to various optional accessories such as Finger Grip (AKA-FGP1) or Handlebar Mount (VCT-HM2) using supplied mount adaptor or worn as a wristband using supplied strap.
Both cameras are expected to be available by the end of September. The Sony FDR-X3000 will be available for , while the Sony FDR-X3000R with Live View Remote will cost . The Sony HDR-AS300 will cost , while the SonyHDR-AS-300R with Live View Remote will be available for . Various accessories, such as a finger grip, multicoat protector and vibration absorber, will also be available. Pre-orders can be submitted now and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Credit cards will not be charged until orders are shipped.
